3x3 basketball gains momentum in Singapore; nation takes aim at 2032 Olympics

SINGAPORE: A compact, quicker version of basketball is gaining momentum in Singapore, with a mounting fan base among both professional and amateur players.

“3x3 basketball has a much faster game pace. It is thrilling, and there isn't much time to think,” said national player Ng Shi Yu.

The Basketball Association of Singapore (BAS), the nation’s governing body for the sport, wants a shot at qualifying for the 2032 Olympic Games in this discipline.

To attract more players and give them experience in the arena, those in Singapore’s basketball fraternity are organising grassroots and international tournaments, and scouting for coaches.

The Basketball Association has set its sights on the Brisbane 2032 Summer Olympics, giving the nation about nine years to get a team ready.

Its coaching and development chairman Allen Lee believes the country has what it takes.

“There is a lot of potential in 3x3 basketball. It really boils down to how much training you have, and how you identify the strengths and weaknesses of your opponents,” said Mr Lee.

“We do know the formula in terms of how we can actually (qualify) … Singapore stands a very good chance if we are able to put in more resources.”

To bring in new blood and drum up enthusiasm for the game, sport organisations are looking at more community 3x3 tournaments.

“Competitions are a main draw. Because nobody likes to just train, right? You want to compete. You want to test out your skills as a team, as an individual,” said Mr Marcus Tan, chief of the sport development group at Sport Singapore (SportSG).

“The 3x3 discipline is a very hyped and fast-paced game, which we strongly believe will attract the younger players. So yes, we will be running a lot more grassroots-based community